Unravelling elder abuse through a human rights lens: a case study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human Rights Law
• Nursing Ethics

Background:

• Elder abuse is a significant issue in residential care settings, often violating the fundamental rights of older adults.
• A human rights-based approach offers a robust framework for understanding and addressing elder abuse.
• Nurses play a critical role in advocating for and protecting the rights of vulnerable older individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the intersection of human rights and elder abuse within residential care.
• To demonstrate the application of a human rights-based approach, specifically the PANEL framework, in safeguarding older adults.
• To highlight the proactive role nurses can undertake in preventing and addressing elder abuse.

Main Methods:

• A critical analysis of a fictional case study depicting elder abuse in a residential care setting.
• Application of the PANEL framework (Participation, Accountability, Non-discrimination, Empowerment, Legality) to the case study.
• Review of relevant human rights principles and legal standards pertaining to elder care.

Main Results:

• The PANEL framework provides a structured and comprehensive method for safeguarding the rights of older individuals.
• Implementing accountability measures, non-discriminatory practices, empowerment strategies, and legal adherence are crucial for effective elder abuse prevention.
• A human rights-based approach enables nurses to proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with elder abuse.

Conclusions:

• Nurses are pivotal in upholding the human rights of older adults in residential care.
• The human rights-based approach, guided by the PANEL framework, enhances the quality of care and promotes a safer environment for the elderly.
• Proactive application of human rights principles is essential for protecting, promoting, and supporting the rights of older adults and combating elder abuse.